Song, hospitality and poetry - three things that cannot be learned says the proverb, but are inherent. This recording proves as much. Mairéad Ní Fhlatharta's strong, clear, distinctive voice shapes and moulds time-hallowed songs in new ways and guides them in previously unimagined directions; the hospitality she shows to new influences in her singing, and the poetry inherent in these ancient songs, which she brings to new heights of lyricism and harmony on this CD. Mairéad has a unique and distinctive singing voice, which remains faithful to her people, her native place and to Connemara in general - register, accent and regional variation as well as the impressive repertoire of songs she employs. Her influences are there for all to see on this particular musical journey: her love of tradition, strongly rooted in the "great" songs that she learned at the feet of the master songsmith Patsy Canavan; her receptiveness to newer songs, composed and sung as she was growing up; songs in English, equally a part of her tradition; and in a flourish of musical flair, the gorgeous song in Scottish Gaelic which she effortlessly makes her own. These songs are sanctified by tradition yet tempered by the youth and exuberance Mairéad brings, and even though the tradition is to the fore here, this diligence and faithfulness is leavened with a carefully crafted sense of innovation confidently embracing the new. With accompaniment by such accomplished musicians as Charlie Lennon, Éilis Lennon, Johnny Óg Connolly, Steve Cooney, Síle Denvir, Micheál Ó Súilleabháin and Órla Ní Cheallaigh, this recording is a feast for the senses.